Florida is renowned for its beaches and wetlands, but hidden within its landscape are ancient geological formations called ridges. These elevated areas, once islands during higher sea levels millions of years ago, fostered the evolution of isolated species found nowhere else. The Lake Wales Ridge in central Florida is a prime example, harboring the Floridobolus penneri, one of North America’s largest millipedes.
A Unique Species in Isolation
This rare arthropod, exclusive to Florida, can grow up to four inches long and boasts over 100 legs. The Florida scrub millipede primarily lives underground, emerging at night. Its existence highlights the importance of fragmented ecosystems where species evolve in isolation, creating pockets of biodiversity that are highly vulnerable to disruption.
Breeding Challenges and Rediscovery
Researchers have found this species difficult to breed in captivity. Graduate student Anne Sawl from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, only achieved success when providing a natural environment—a kiddie pool with native plants from the ridge. This discovery underscores how little is known about these creatures, especially given they hadn’t been scientifically surveyed in almost two decades.
Threatened Habitat and Ecological Role
The Florida scrub millipede faces a significant threat from habitat loss. Human activity has already destroyed an estimated 85% of the Lake Wales Ridge’s original natural environment. Despite being overlooked, these millipedes are critical to nutrient recycling. Their digestive process breaks down plant matter into essential nutrients, effectively turning their waste into fertilizer.
Unexpected Dietary Preferences
Recent studies by Sawl have revealed the millipedes may prefer mushrooms and fungi over certain plant materials previously assumed. This unexpected dietary preference highlights how little we still know about their behavior and ecological impact.
“Millipedes might not be glamorous, but they are ecological champions in these fragile habitats,” notes Deby Cassill, Sawl’s advisor at the University of South Florida.
The continued study of this species is crucial, as their survival depends on understanding and protecting their unique, isolated habitat. The rediscovery and ongoing research into the Florida scrub millipede underscores the importance of preserving these overlooked ecosystems before they disappear.
